RAD proposal presented for Renzie Park

By JEFF STITT
jstitt@yourmvi.com

In a public hearing this week before the Allegheny Regional Asset District (RAD) board, McKeesport officials requested funding for a crown jewel of the city — Renziehausen Park.
If awarded 2022 RAD money, the city would like to make improvements at the heavily-used McKeesport Lions Club Bandshell.
For over 25 years, RAD has invested in Allegheny County’s quality of life through financial support of libraries, parks and trails, arts and cultural organizations, regional attractions, sports and civic facilities and public transit.
With half of the proceeds from the additional 1% sales and use tax, RAD has invested more than $2 billion in the region.
An additional $2 billion has gone directly to the County and its 128 municipalities for property tax relief and local government services.
Jennifer Vertullo, assistant to McKeesport Mayor Michael Cherepko, and City Administrator Tom Maglicco on Wednesday highlighted how RAD money has been used for operational costs and myriad capital projects, including the recent makeover to the Charles D. Lickert Memorial Walking Trail system and rejuvenating Renzie pavilions and creating access roads to them.
Upgrades at the bandshell are a goal for the city
At the request of the board, Vertullo and Maglicco talked about future plans for the park and explained what the city would like to use 2022 RAD funds for if they are awarded.
Chairwoman Dusty Elias Kirk asked the duo to provide the RAD board with a list of ranked priorities for uses of 2022 RAD funding in case RAD isn’t able to issue a big enough capital improvements award.
Maglicco said upgrades at the bandshell top the list.
“Something that we want to put a lot of attention to is the Lions Bandshell,” Maglicco said. “It’s a very visual point to Renzie Park. It’s kind of right at our entrance so we really want to restore that to what it has been in the past and what it’s going to be in the future.”
The McKeesport Lions Club Bandshell is home to the summer concert series, the Renzie Rib Fest, Movies in the Park, fireworks displays, the Village for Kids and more.
“That’s such a public draw for a lot of activities,” Maglicco said of the bandshell.

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